US Navy Secretary John Phelan has immediately departed his role following reported disagreements with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his deputy Stephen Feinberg, marking the latest high-profile military departure from the Trump administration as the United States wages war in Iran.
Disputes Behind the Ousting
President Trump and Secretary Hegseth agreed that new leadership was needed for the Navy, with Hegseth informing Phelan of his removal. The disputes reportedly stemmed from issues including the Navy’s shipbuilding program and Phelan's alleged direct communication with President Trump, bypassing Hegseth.
Phelan's Background
Phelan, a businessperson and political donor with no military background, was sworn in as Navy Secretary in March 2025 after President Trump's reelection. His ousting is the latest in a series of high-profile military leadership changes under Secretary Hegseth, occurring amidst a US blockade of Iranian ports and rising oil prices.
